The white grape variety originates from Georgia. Synonyms are Chanti, Mamali Tsitska, Shanti, Tsistka, Tsitsiko and Zizka. According to DNA analyses carried out in 2021, it originates from a presumably natural cross between Bazaleturi x unknown partner. The late-maturing, high-yielding vine produces tangy, acidic white wines with flavours of melon, apples and pears, which are ideal for sparkling wine production. It is also used for table grape. The variety is particularly widespread in the Imeretia region. It is often blended with the Tsolikouri variety. In 2016, 3,642 hectares were designated (Kym Anderson). This puts it in 135th place in the global grape variety ranking.
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Thorsten Rahn
Restaurantleiter, Sommelier, Weindozent und Autor; Dresden